Issue paper
Promoting Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment in Fisheries and Aquaculture
This fact sheet presents an overview of current gender equality and women’s empowerment issues in the fisheries sector. Women’s engagement in fisheries can be viewed from social, political and technical perspectives, all of which show that the role of women is often underestimated. This inadequate recognition of women’s contributions hampers the sustainable development process, resulting in increased poverty and food insecurity.
This fact sheet provides information on policy, institutions and planning processes; statistical dimensions in gender analysis; and specific concerns in the field of fisheries industries. It identifies lessons learned and opportunities for gender mainstreaming at macro, meso and microoperational levels.
The information provided does not represent an exhaustive analysis of the subject, but suggests some relevant approaches for continuing the efforts made over the years in light of women’s crucial role in sustainable fisheries and aquaculture development.